Wilmington man convicted of drug, firearm offenses

By Jackson Fuller StarNews Staff

Wednesday

May 15, 2019 at 9:05 AMMay 15, 2019 at 9:23 AM

Harts had multiple prior theft, firearm convictions

WILMINGTON -- A Port City man pleaded guilty Tuesday in New Hanover County Superior Court to one count of possession of methamphetamine, one count of possession of heroin, one count of possessing a firearm with an altered serial number, and one count of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

Judge R. Kent Harrell of Pender County sentenced Jeremy Harts, 38, to a total of a minimum of 55 months and a maximum of 93 months in the North Carolina Department of Adult Corrections.

On September 24, 2018, the defendant was found in possession of 0.31 grams of methamphetamine when detectives came to his house on Arlene Drive in Wilmington to serve him with an outstanding order for arrest for a misdemeanor probation violation, according to a release from the District Attorney's office. Later, on November 16, 2018, the defendant was found in possession of a Hi-Point .380 ACP firearm with an altered serial number as well as a bindle of heroin in a shed behind his house. The defendant has been convicted of multiple felony theft and firearm offenses in the past.

“Drugs, felons, and firearms don’t mix, and we have seen the terrible consequences when those three factors do merge in the various acts of violence within our community.” Assistant District Attorney Brad Matthews said.

“Prosecuting violent criminals and career offenders are the top priorities of this office, and this defendant certainly meets both of these criteria,” District Attorney Ben David said.

Contact the newsroom at 910-343-2384 or Breakingnews@StarNewsOnline.com.

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